Non-Invasive Ornamental Grass

Growing Considerations

• When selecting non-invasive grasses, look for sod-forming ornamental grasses that produce very short rhizomes. Some will grow just as tall and wide as other grasses, but are not considered to be invasive. In addition to ease of growth, ornamental grasses are very resistant to insects and diseases. Most grasses thrive in full sun, which helps produce lots of plumes and striking foliage. Plan to fertilize grasses once a year and cut them in early spring before new growth begins. Before choosing non-invasive grasses to plant, consider your site's sun pattern as well as your U.S. Department of Agriculture cold hardiness zone.

Golden Foxtail Grass

• Golden Foxtail Grass (Alopecurus pratensis "Aureovariegatus") is a cool-season grass that brings bright-green variegated foliage and green-tan plumes to the garden. It is a non-invasive slow spreader, whose blades grow up to 16 inches tall. The plumes that appear in May and June grow up to 2 feet tall. It prefers full sun but will grow in light shade, in moist, fertile soil, and is hardy to USDA zone 4.

Indian Grass

• Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans) is a low-maintenance non-invasive ornamental grass. This tall grass was once found on millions of acres on the prairie and is highly adaptable. Its beauty is found in the burgundy-brown plumes that are highlighted by bright-yellow anthers. It will grow in part shade to full sun; it likes moist soil but will become drought tolerant once established. This North American native will grow in USDA plant hardiness zones 3 to 9.

Blue Sedge

• Blue Sedge (Carex flacca), as its name suggests, brings beautiful blue-gray foliage to the garden. This tough, non-invasive evergreen grass comes in many colors and forms. The small clumps adapt well to rock gardens or as ground cover. It is versatile because it grows well in full sun or part shade in moist to dry soil. It is cold hardy to zone 4.